Silicates (SiO2)

Silicates make up about 25% of all known minerals and around 40% of the most common ones. All contain silicon, a light metal and oxygen, a colorless, odorless gas. These form into various shapes based on how the formations align. Silicates come in a wide range of colors and crystal structures, from the clear, glass-like quartz to the striking green crystals of emerald.